Friday, 24 November 2023

Turning the tap on Hastings Bowling Club’s new watering system

Hastings Bowling Club has turned on the tap to a new automated garden watering system that saves precious drinking water and keeps their gardens green all year round.

Representing Minister for Water Harriet Shing, Member for Hastings Paul Mercurio visited Hastings Bowling Club to see the alternative water supply system in action, made possible through the support of a $7,300 South East Water Community Grant.

Hastings Bowling Club can now access water for its gardens, even during dry spells by harnessing rainwater from its existing 45,000-litre tanks, following the club’s transition from lawn to synthetic bowling greens.

The project was made possible with grant funding and installation assistance from Think Water Hastings.
The watering system features a high-pressure pump to access the rainwater tanks, anti-syphoning dripper lines to keep bugs out when inactive, and automation through a water-saving timer and controller.

The automated garden watering system also supports the health and wellbeing of the club’s volunteers, who can now leave behind manual, labour-intensive ways of watering and embrace a more sustainable alternative.

Now in its fourth year, South East Water’s annual Community Grants program has granted $330,000 to 66 community groups across Melbourne’s south-east.

Other successful grant projects helping make every drop count include a watering system upgrade on a Food for Change farm (Mornington Peninsula) providing more food to those in need across South East Victoria; a therapeutic and sustainable garden at the Lighthouse Foundation home for vulnerable young people in Frankston; and two 5,000 litre rainwater tanks at RSPCA’s Pearcedale animal shelter.

Community Grant applications will open again in March 2024 at southeastwater.com.au/grants.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Water Harriet Shing

“Congratulations to Hastings Bowling Club for their investment in harvesting a sustainable source of water that helps to drive long-term water security and protect our environment.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Hastings Paul Mercurio

“This project creates ongoing sustainable and recreational outcomes for the Hastings community, conserving water while helping our wonderful local volunteers and community members to stay active all year round.” 

Quotes attributable to South East Water Community and Stakeholder Manager Jon Theobald

“We’re very honoured to support this important project through our annual Community Grants program, helping to build community knowledge about long-term water security and how to use it in the best way possible.”